What you need to know about the upcoming General Election
Would it surprise you that most Americans have more frequent contact with their state and local governments than with the federal government?
Services such as snow removal, wastewater treatment, emergency services and public transportation are a part of local government. We may not give much thought to the freshly mowed grass in the park, but these things that improve our quality of life would not be possible without our local government.
The upcoming November 7, 2023, General Election will determine local government representatives, including mayor, city council members and school board memberships. The individuals elected to these nonpartisan positions are responsible for helping to improve the social, economic and educational aspects of their communities in Johnson County.
“Presidential elections may receive the most attention, but ‘off-year’ local elections are important too,” Election Commissioner Fred Sherman said.
Visit jocoelection.org for a full list of candidates as well as additional election information.
Important 2023 General Election Dates
- Tuesday, Oct. 17 – Last day to register to vote. Find the voter registration application online at jocoelection.org/registration or at the Johnson County Election Office.
- Wednesday, Oct. 18 – Mailing of advance ballots begins. Any registered voter can apply to vote by mail in any election. No reason is required, but you must apply for each election. Find the application on jocoelection.org/advance-voting or at the Johnson County Election Office.
- Saturday, Oct. 28 – Advance voting in person begins. A full list of advance voting locations and hours can be found at jocoelection.org/advance-voting. Voters can cast their ballot at any location, and no application is required.
- Tuesday, Oct. 31 – Last day to apply for an advance ballot.
- Monday, Nov. 6 – Advance voting closes at noon.
- Tuesday, Nov. 7 – General Election Day. Polls are open from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. and voters must be in line by 7 p.m. to cast a ballot. Find your assigned polling site on myvoteinfo.voteks.org. Ballot drop boxes will also close at 7 p.m., and mail ballots must be postmarked on Election Day.
Registering and Voting in the General Election
How do I register to vote?
To be a registered voter in Johnson County, you must be a United States citizen, a Johnson County resident and 18 years old before or on Election Day.
The voter registration application can be found at jocoelection.org/registration and can be submitted via mail, fax or personal delivery to the Johnson County Election Office.
You may also submit your voter registration online at sos.ks.gov if you have a valid Kansas driver’s license or non-driver’s identification card.
Three ways to vote
- Submit an advance ballot application and return your ballot by mail, ballot drop box, or in person at a polling place. Find the application on voter.jocoelection.org.
- In person on Election Day at your assigned polling place.
- Early in person starting Oct. 28 at any location. Find locations and hours at jocoelection.org/advance-voting.
Do I need ID to vote?
Yes. State law requires voters to show photographic identification when voting in person. Exemptions exist for individuals 65 years of age or older or individuals whose religious beliefs prohibit photographic identification. More details on photo ID requirements can be found at sos.ks.gov or by calling 913-715-6800.